One day trip Sacred Valley
The trip is Sacred Valley, the daily trip is wonderful, the guide Grobert and the driver are nice. We enjoyed the full trip.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days & 1 Night
- Duration 2 Days
- Type Private or Group
- Group Size up to 8 people
- Languages English, Spanish
From $497.00 / Person
Experiencing the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a desire shared by many. And for small wonder as you pass through stunning Inca ruins, spectacular mountain valleys, lush vegetation and remarkable ecological varieties.
The Inca Trail hikes up and enters into Machu Macchu through the Sun Gate with the most famous unforgettable views of Machu Picchu. You will pass through cloud forest and finally into subtropical vegetation. Trekkers on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu have the privilege of visiting the Ancient Machu Picchu City twice, on the 1st day when they arrive through the sungate, and the second day when they take a tour with their guide.
The second day, you will be taken by shuttle bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo up the mountain, just in time for sunrise over the mountains and Machu Picchu (2,400m/7907ft), you then begin your exploration of the natural world and ancient culture in the City of Machu Picchu. Catch yourself as you travel back in time to this magical, sacred, and mysterious place, known as Machu-Picchu, “The Old Sacred Mountain.” Take your time exploring magestic Machu Picchu, the Incan ruins rich in history of its past and the once-thriving culture of the people who lived there.
Itinerary
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
DAY 1: CUSCO – KM104 – WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU
With two full days packed with excitement waiting, we begin your hotel pick up bright and early. Be ready for us at 4 am so we can start the drive through the Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
We arrive with plenty of time to spare for your 6:10 am departure. A quick break for some coffee and have your breakfast. Today is a big day, make sure you’re well energized for it! We’ll be on the train for roughly an hour and ten minutes before arriving to KM104. This is the starting point for the day (elevation 2,100m/6,927ft).
Time to star the hike
Here, we find our first checkpoint of the day. Take a minute here to repack your bag, stuff and last minute snacks in your cheeks, reapply sunscreen and bug spray and adjust your hiking poles. Our first ruin of the day is Chachabamba. It is located just a few steps from the entrance of the hike.
We’ll take a few minutes here to explore the area and listen to the history from your guide before beginning the main section of the hike. The main section of the hike consists of roughly three hours of gradual uphill climbing. We’ll pass plenty of viewpoints and great photo ops, so keep your cameras ready!
Wiñay Wayna
At the end of this section of the hike is a beautiful waterfall where we can stop to rest our legs for a while. The next part is shorter but much steeper. Next stop, Wiñay Wayna!
From the waterfall it is just a few more minutes until we get our first glance at Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8747 ft) nestled in the mountain. After climbing the steep stairs we can take a moment to explore these truly remarkable ruins, learning about the history and the discovery which happened long after Machu Picchu was discovered.
We stop for lunch at the Wiñay Wayna campsite, this is where our trail joins the 4 day Inca Trail route. We have about 2 hours left until we reach Machu Picchu! The next hour winds up and down, coming to a head at the “Gringo Killer” steps- steps so steep you’ll be using your hands to help you up!
Machu Picchu
Finally, we arrive at the iconic Inti-Punku, the Sun Gate. From here, you will be able to enjoy your first glimpse at Machu Picchu. Soak it in, grab some pictures, and from here we begin our final stretch. This is an hour downhill, through a few more ruins before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.
We will have a little time here to enjoy the view from the famous viewing platform before leaving and taking the bus to Aguas Calientes, the town below. Here, we will get you checked into your hotel and fed before an early night, ready for the tour of the citadel tomorrow.
- Meals: Box Lunch & Dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu
- Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Today is the day! We begin exploring the magnificent Machu Picchu, where you can learn all about why they call her the Old Sacred Mountain. Even today she has magical and mysterious presence that is hard to explain. If your group takes the first bus at 5:30AM to the Machu Picchu Citadel, you may be in time to enjoy the sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Your guide will expertly show you through the ruins, answering all of your questions throughout your morning tour of Machu Picchu. Be sure to take a moment to soak in the vibes of the city and appreciate the journey you took to get here.
Here are a couple of additional activities that you might wish to try out:
- Climb up Huayna Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from above (not included in your tour price and must be booked way in advance to guarantee a ticket).
- In Aguas Calientes a visit to the new local museum or to the hot springs (entrance fees required)
You will descend to Aguas Calientes when you are ready to eat lunch and later on board the Expedition Train at pm 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM for the return trip to Cusco. You will arrive at the Ollantaytambo Train Station and where our private van will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, arriving in your hotel at around 7 pm.
- Meal: Breakfast
- Difficulty: Easy.
Note: It is possible to upgrade to Vistadome Train from Aguas Caliente to Cusco (Poroy), see times and prices below.
Inclusions
WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
- Pick up at your hotel
- Private transport from your hotel to the train station
- 3 Bus tickets, Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on day 1, and the return trip on day 2.
- English speaking professional guide experienced in trekking.
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to KM104, where your trek begins.
- Expedition Train- from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo with private van back to Cusco.
- Admission Tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological sites.
- One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes in a 3 star hotel (hot shower, private room and bathroom, plus breakfast included)
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
- Taxes
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED NOT INCLUDED FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$75.
- First breakfast on day 1 (Usually hotels offer a picnic breakfast option).
- Last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Upgraded Hotel to 4 or 5 star.
- Vistadome Train to Cusco instead of Expedition Train, Please add US$67 per person (For the return only to Cusco (Poroy) at 2:55 PM, 3:20PM, and 4:43 PM)
- Tips for our staff (Sam Travel Peru staff receives a fair and decent payment immediately after they end their trip, tips are optional but greatly appreciated)
Price & Availability
BEST PRICES
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is almost always available year round as long as permits are available except in February, when it is closed for maintenance. We only need a minimum of two people in order to confirm this trip. This trek takes you into Machu Picchu by walking through the Sun Gate just like in the Inca times. You will explore some amazing Inca ruins along the way like Wiñay Wayna Inca City.
PRICES
- US$477 per person without a hotel included.
- US$497 per person with a 3 star hotel (single traveler supplement $40 extra. Trek prices are based on double occupancy).
EXTRAS
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike: US$75 per person
- Vistadome Train: US$67 per person – (For the return to Cusco (Poroy) at 2:55, 3:20, & 4:43 PM.
- Single supplement US$40 per night for hotel (for solo travellers with single room. Prices based on double occupancy).
- Free duffle bag (5 kilos): to your hotel in Aguas Calientes for those staying extra days
DISCOUNTS
- 18 to 25 years old: US$30 Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
- Under 18 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Under 11 years old: US$40 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
CHECK YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU TREK AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON THE MONTH OF YOUR CHOICE!
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FREE ADDED VALUE
- Transfer From Airport to your hotel in Cusco included (Airport to Hotel in Cusco only).
- Small Groups – average 4 to 6 with a maximum of 8 hikers.
- Afternoon Train – We give you enough time to explore Machu Picchu and have a relaxing lunch at Aguas Calientes (lunch not included). Your train back to Ollantaytambo is at 2:55 PM or 3:30 PM. When you arrive in Ollantaytambo you catch your private van to Cusco, arriving in Cusco by 7 PM.
- 3 Star Hotel at Aguas Calientes, which includes private bathroom, hot shower, buffet breakfast, and wifi etc.
Important Info
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please read carefully the following information carefully; it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu.
WELCOME TO CUSCO
You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and taken to your hotel, please ensure that you inform us of your full flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Look out for our representative holding an orange board saying either your name or “Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu” outside the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal in order to find our representative (they cannot enter inside). We can pick you up on the day that is best suited to you!
THE BRIEFING
The briefing will take place the night before your treks departure. Typically briefings begin at 6pm in our office which is located at Calle Garcilaso #210 (second floor), in La Casa del Abuelo shopping center.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE IN YOUR OFFICE:
Of course! During the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free. Please do not pack anything in your main luggage that you will need for your hike.
HOW TO BOOK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU
FIRST, to book your Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, you need to fill out our booking form by clicking the BOOK NOW button on our homepage.
Please be ready with the following information (FOR EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase a Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu permit without the following information:
- Your full name, exactly as on your passport
- Gender as it is listed in your passport
- Passport number
- D.O.B. (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
SECOND, we require a deposit of US$211.00 (US$200 + US$11) which includes a 5.5% service charge by PayPal and Visa per person. In order for us to purchase a permit for the 2 day Inca Trail Machu Picchu please make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page or click here on the payment type of your choice, either VISA or PAYPAL,
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many cash machines in the historical center where you can withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online- this includes a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address of info@shortincatrailmachupicchu.com.
HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
- According to Peruvian Law you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need valid student cards). For example if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.
- All students from 11 to 17 years, the discount is $30.
- For children from the age of 2 to 11 the discount is $40.
- For children from the age of 0 to 2 are free.
- All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
Unfortunately the answer is “NO”. Once the tickets have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure date after the ticket has been bought. The Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu tickets are also not transferable nor refundable.
If you cancel your Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, the deposit is completely non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?
Yes for sure! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number that you booked your tour with. The rangers have various checkpoints along the trail to Machu Picchu where you will need to show your passport.
If you need to renew your passport before coming to Peru (remember you need at least 6 months validity before entering), we can secure your permit using your old passport, and can either change it when you get a new one or simply bring both passports with you.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?
It’s important to understand that in the Andes, the weather is very unpredictable and you can experience 4 seasons worth of weather in an afternoon. Likewise, on the trail we will pass through several different microclimates, each of which may present its own type of weather. It’s best to dress in layers that are easy to get on and off.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
In general if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to let your body acclimatize, you will be fine.
The recommended medicine for altitude sickness is water, coca tea, plenty of rest and oxygen only if necessary. The best thing you can do for yourself is to give yourself time to take it easy in Cusco before the trek begins. Once on the trek, our guides are trained to treat you for altitude sickness.
See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.
We can add on a Cusco City Tour or Sacred Valley Tour to help you get used to the altitude before your trek. Check them out in our “Day Tours” tab.
HOW MANY PEOPLE PER GROUP?
The maximum group size is 8 persons. Usually our groups are between 2-6 persons. Sam Travel Peru is specialised in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provide a personalised service.
WHAT DOES THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU LOOK LIKE IN THE PEAK SEASON?
It can get a bit crowded but with the strict government regulations to limit the amount of people hiking per day, there is enough space for everyone. To improve your experience on the Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, we have small groups with expert guides.
ARE WE DROPPED AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?
Absolutely! Hotel pick up and drop off is included in this tour. We also have the option for drop-offs in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba).
WHAT TIME IS THE TRAIN’S DEPARTURE?
It will depend on the train availability but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views from the train on the way back to Cusco. Typically we try to ensure the train at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM depending on availability.
VISTADOME TRAIN UPGRADE; HOW MUCH IS IT?
Upgrading to Vistadome train is a great way to add a little comfort and luxury to your trip without breaking the bank. The Vistadome has nicer seats as well as panoramic windows- even on the ceiling. There are snacks provided and a traditional dance shown aboard.
TIPPING
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many SAM Travel Peru destinations. Of course you are free to tip however much you feel, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?
Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator in that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand and respect the local places and it’s people.
Packing List
PACKING LIST FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU
The Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE the extra porter, so, you will need to carry all your things, please try to pack as light as possible which is the key to enjoying this amazing trek.
- Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Good daypack (25 to 30 liters)
- Water 1 to 2 liters of water
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Toilet Paper
- 1 T-shirt
- 1 hiking or comfortable pants
- Undergarments
- Hiking socks
- Polar or sweater for early mornings and evenings
- Jacket if cold season
- Hand Sanitizer
- Toothbrush and paste
- Personal medications
- Sun Hat
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket – rainy season
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Camera
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips.
What You'll Experience on the Trail
From the terraces of Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate, every step brings you closer to the lost city of the Incas.
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Stop 01 / 03Wiñay Wayna
Its agricultural terraces cover half the mountainside, making it a trail favorite. Its name means "Eternally Young" in Quechua.
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Stop 02 / 03Inti Punku
The "Gate of the Sun" was the main entrance to Machu Picchu and gives you your first view of the citadel, a view you can only earn on the Inca Trail.
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Stop 03 / 03Machu Picchu
By far the most well known UNESCO world heritage site in Peru and the pinnacle of many people's visits to South America. This is where you wanted to be.
Lovely Words From Our Travelers
Real reviews from travelers who explored Machu Picchu and Cusco with us, straight from Tripadvisor, Google and Trustpilot.
Tripadvisor Reviews
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Amazing experience with Sam travels
I had the best experience with Sam travels, we had an amazing time doing the 4d Salkantay trek, we had the best weather. Specifically want to mention Josep what an amazing cool guy he was. A real leader, great story teller, motivator and made you feel like you were taking on something special. Secondly another special mention for Andres and his catering team. The food was amazing, real nutritious and energising for the long trekking days.
Finally the horse man Donato, he managed to get all of our fresh clothing to the next camp very efficiently. Highly recommend a trip with this company.
Great experience at short Inca trail
We did the 2-day Short Inca Trail and it was a fantastic experience! Our guide, Fredy Zapata, was excellent. He told us so much about the history of the Incas and the region, and was able to answer every question we had. He did a great job and made the whole experience really enjoyable.
The highlight was definitely arriving at the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time. An unforgettable experience that we would highly recommend!
Great experience because of the team!
Amazing trip! What a great experience, so well organized. Our guide Josep was a guiding star who knows so much and shared a lot of information. Very kind and helpful in every way. The cooking team of Andres was amazing and we had wonderful and a great variety of meals every evening. Donato the horseman made sure we got our stuff safe and in time to every stop. I could not ask for a better experience to be honest. Especially Josep, thank you for being so flexible, organized and sharing your knowledge.
Unforgettable Salkantay Experience with Sam Travel
We did the Salkantay Trek with SAM Travel and couldn’t have been happier with our choice! Our guide, Josep, was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and passionate. He answered every single one of our questions about nature, history and Peruvian culture honestly, even better than ChatGPT! ;) We especially loved being in such a small group. It made the whole experience feel much more personal, relaxed and authentic.. The accommodations throughout the trek were excellent, and the food prepared by Andrés was absolutely outstanding. We were honestly surprised by the quality and variety of the meals, especially considering we were in the middle of the mountains. We spent a long time researching different companies before booking the Salkantay Trek, and choosing SAM Travel was definitely the right decision. Everything was extremely well organized, and the entire experience exceeded our expectations. We would 100% recommend SAM Travel, and especially Josep and Andrés, to anyone planning to do the Salkantay Trek!
SAM travel
Great trip. Great people. Loved my time with Joseph, Andres, Donato.and Elvis. Amazing world to explore made extra special with great people. Shout to my fellow travellers
Best trek ever!
It was amazing. We had the best Guide with Josep who is Sperling really good English and explaining so many things to us as well as introducing us perfectly to the altitude and the landscape. The Pick Up, accomodation and especially the food was so well organized and delicious. I highly recommend doing this trek, it was spectacular. 😍
Google Reviews
Read all on Google
We had an amazing experience on the 4 day/3 night Salkantay Trek with Sam Travel Peru. Everything was seamless from beginning to end.…
I joined the 2-day, 1-night tour to Cusco and Machu Picchu with SAM TRAVEL, and it was an amazing experience from start to finish.…
We had an incredible time on the 3D/2N Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour and would highly recommend it. It was fantastic to visit some of the highlights of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, the Maras Salt Mines and Moray on the first…
We did the 4-day Inca Trail with Sam's Travel, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. It's something we will cherish for the rest of our lives.…
We had a great time on our 3d/2n tour of the sacred valley and short inca trail. The sacred valley prepared us very well for Macchu Picchu and the information provided was great. Our guide Rolando was very knowledgeable about the inca…
We’ve just done the 4-Days Inca trail with SAM travel. Our main guide Josep was very professional, knowledgeable and considerate. He really made sure that we enjoy the journey and our needs are addressed. Jimmy, our assistant guide, helped…
We had a great experience with Sam Travel Peru. Always felt well taken care of and safe. Our guide, Israel, was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The office staff were always quick to reply to emails.…
Trustpilot Reviews
Read all on Trustpilot
Awesome trip with Josef as our guide…
Awesome trip with Josef as our guide Mario the chef with amazing food and porters who were our hero’s.
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow…
We booked a day tour for the Rainbow Mountain and it had been just perfect. Fernando, our guide, was really kind and attentive. All the staff is professional and friendly, totally recommended!
Incredible Salkantay Trek with Exceptional Guide Jhordy
We recently completed the Salkantay Trail trek with Sam Travel, and we couldn't be happier with our experience. Our guide, Jhordy, was exceptional. He was highly professional, providing great insights, facts, and stories that enriched our journey. Jhordy was very patient with us and demonstrated remarkable flexibility, adjusting the itinerary when we weren't feeling our best. We highly recommend Sam Travel, especially Jhordy, for making our trek an incredible time.